Rumors spread this week that Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick had become the owner of a dog again. Given that he went to jail for funding and overseeing a dog fighting ring, I could see why most people would be up in arms over the idea of Vick being a pet owner again. I just think too much is being made of something that neither you nor I should care about.

Look, I get it. I was furious with Vick after the allegations came out. I am a dog lover and have had a dog in my family my entire life. It was sick to find out some of the things Vick (or his friends) were doing to these dogs. There is no way I’d be writing this if it was around the time Vick had been released from prison.

However, I am a strong believer in if someone shows his conviction and does not give me a reason to distrust him, then I will go ahead and be trustworthy of that person. Vick did his time. He had everything taken from him. Money, fame, freedom, everything. I don’t believe the prison system works that well with everyone, but it has to work with most professional athletes. They go from living the life of luxury to spending 18 hours a day in one room.

He can’t want to have that feeling again.

Plus, Vick is a family man now. Having recently married in June of this year, why should I tell Vick he cannot get a dog for his family? As long as the dog is being well taken care of, which he assures it is, I have no issues with it. Not to mention all the work Vick has done for animal rights organizations since his incarceration. He has worked with The Humane Society, speaking out against dog fighting at schools.

Vick released a statement earlier today on the subject.

“I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family’s decision to care for a pet. As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God’s creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family. This is an opportunity to break the cycle. To that end, I will continue to honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change.”

I hope this doesn’t become more of a story than it already is. Again I ask, why should I care?